Bills RB James Cook: Breakout Season on Horizon in Year 2?
This season is going to provide an incredible opportunity for Buffalo Bills running back James Cook after he appeared in 16 games but made zero starts as a rookie.
However, things are about to change for Cook. The Bills moved on from their former starting running back in Devin Singletary this offseason, meaning Cook will now get to potentially hold the starting running back belt in his second year.
Cook has the skillset and team fit needed to have a breakout season, and the opportunity is coming his way. In a full-time starting role, Cook will be able to establish what kind of player he can be in the NFL. He scored three touchdowns last season, with two coming on the ground and one through the air. He also scored a rushing touchdown in the playoffs.
In a backup role, the 5-11 running back was able to be efficient and make big-time plays for the Bills.
The running back first had a big game against the Cleveland Browns last season, where he picked up 86 yards on 11 touches. He had a similar showing against the Arizona Cardinals later in the season, racking up 99 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown on 11 touches.
As the season winded down, Cook's snap percentage went up and he was being used more and more, inevitably setting up a big year this next season for him. He was able to pick up more viable experience.
However, there's competition in the running back room with Damien Harris and potentially Latavius Murray, but Cook should be able to take the leap and hold the starting role for the offense.
Playing off Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs will make life that much easier for Cook, too. While Cook alleviates pressure for Allen in the rushing game, Allen's dual-threat ability does the same for Cook. They'll help each other out in that aspect, and Cook will be able to compliment the passing game well, as he can be a big check-down guy that can make big plays after the catch.
Essentially, Cook will be an electric playmaker that will impact both the rushing and passing game, and getting consistent starts will allow him to spread his wings.
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